Best Places to Live in Hillsborough

Are you looking for the best neighborhoods in Hillsborough, NC? Here are the top ten places to live in Hillsborough! 

Hillsborough is a beautiful town in Orange County, North Carolina, best known for its small-town feel, southern charm, and rich history. Considered a great place to live and the perfect destination for a day or weekend trip, it is no wonder that many people are deciding to call Hillsborough home. 

With a population of almost 10,000 people, residents love the area for its sought-after real estate, safe neighborhoods, and family-friendly amenities. Though most residents are families with children, many young professionals and retirees are also drawn to the area for its high-quality life and job opportunities. 

Full of hidden gems and within an hour's drive to Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill, buying real estate in this North Carolina town is certainly convenient if you move to Hillsborough. 

Whether you are searching for a quiet and peaceful neighborhood or a community near many fun things to do, Hillsborough has plenty of options that fit your budget. 

Check out these best places to live in Hillsborough. 

1. Wildwood

Wildwood is a great neighborhood in Hillsborough that features many cozy and cute homes that are all reasonably priced for its location. Recognized as a well-established community since most homes in Wildwood were constructed between 1985 and 1987, many buyers are looking to move here. 

Comprised of mostly single-family homes with two or three bedrooms ranging between 1020 and 1553 square feet, this neighborhood is great for small families. 

If you are moving with school-aged children, the best schools in the area include New Hope Elementary School, A L Stanback Middle School, and Cedar Ridge High School. 

Local Favorites: 

Gold Park: This peaceful park features a dog park, picnic tables, a hiking trail, and a playground. 

Big Bob's City Grill: Visit this hidden gem for freshly made burgers, fried chicken, and country sides. 

Jay's Chicken Shack: Specializing in fried chicken, wings, burgers, and milkshakes. 

2. Stagecoach Run 

The suburban neighborhood of Stagecoach Run is a great place to live in Hillsborough, with gorgeous real estate—the homes for sale in Stagecoach Run range between 1,800 square feet to over 2,100 square feet. 

This is an affordable neighborhood with numerous home styles that vary in size and price, making it one of the best places to live in Hillsborough. Comprised of mostly single-family homes, Stagecoach Run has top-rated amenities, including delicious restaurants, popular parks, and fun activities. 

Local Favorites: 

Village Diner: Specializing in Southern and American country cooking, this local restaurant offers good food, affordable prices, and great service. 

Hillsborough BBQ Company: A must-visit for traditional southern BBQ, country sides, and desserts, all made in-house. 

Hillsborough Visitor's Center: Stop in this visitor's center for information on guided tours, maps of the area, and upcoming community events. 

3. Churton Grove 

Churton Grove is a wonderful community developed in the early 2000s, making it a well-established neighborhood. Providing quick and convenient access to Downtown Hillsborough, many residents love living in Churton Grove for its location alone. 

Homes for sale in Churton Grove are mostly single-family homes and range between $300,000 to $500,000. One of the best parts about calling Churton Grove home is its top-rated amenities and attractive clubhouse. The two-story clubhouse is 4,500 square feet and features an adult activity room, kitchen, covered porches, offices, and a multi-purpose activity room. 

The community also features a neighborhood pool, walking trails, tennis courts, basketball courts, and playgrounds, making this a perfect place for active adults and families. 

Local Favorites: 

Antonia's Restaurant: Only using fresh and local ingredients, this is the perfect spot in town for Italian entrees, pasta dishes, and cocktails. 

The Nomad at the Osbunn: Dine on traditional dishes and craft cocktails in a vibrant and modern atmosphere. 

Ayr Mount: This federal-style plantation home is a historical landmark in Orange County. It was a large working farm of over 500 acres built in 1815 that is now open for tours. 

4. Fox Hill Farm 

Fox Hill Farm is the best place to live in Hillsborough if you are looking for a quiet place outside the hustle and bustle of busy city life. For those who value privacy and access to nature, the homes in this community sit on two to ten-acre homesites, which means you and your family will have tons of land. 

With over 300 home plans between 2,800 and well over 5,000 square feet, most homes in this neighborhood are completly customizable. Found close to many walking trails, parks, greenways, water features, and even horse trails, there is no better place to live with easy access to Research Triangle Park. 

Beloved for its beautiful surroundings, most homes in Fox Hill Farm spend an average of 110 days on the market and sell for an average of $251 per square foot. 

Local Favorites: 

Occoneechee Mountain State Natural Area: Located 15 miles northwest of Downtown Durham, this 221-acre natural area is a great place to hike, relax, and enjoy the scenery.

Saratoga Grill: Best known for its homemade clam chowder, housemade scones, seafood, and steak entrees. 

Jacks Restaurant: Visit Jacks for a homemade meal, a strong cup of coffee, and one of the best breakfasts in Hillsborough. 

5. Forest Ridge 

Forest Ridge is a newer Hillsborough community developed between 2017 and 2018. Offering large and open floor plans with full bathrooms, wide front porches, and backyard patios, Forest Ridge is an ideal place to live in the historic town of Hillsborough. 

This housing development in Orange County features mostly midsize homes that are competitively priced. Perfect for new homebuyers searching for a newer build, the homes in Forest Ridge range between 1,681 and 4,100 square feet. 

For those moving to Forest Ridge with school-aged children, the best schools in the area include Cameron Park Elementary School, Charles W Stanford Middle School, and Orange High School. 

Local Favorites: 

Hillsborough Gallery of Arts: Owned and operated by local artists, visit this gallery with a beautiful collection of original artwork. 

Wooden Nickel Pub: This beloved neighborhood pub features outdoor seating, great cocktails, craft beers, and jumbo wings. 

Yonder: Southern Cocktails and Brew: A great spot in town to enjoy live music, local art, and Southern cocktails. 

6. Strouds Creek 

The neighborhood of Strouds Creek is a newer community developed in 2017 and mostly features large homes that are all reasonably priced. This is an ideal place to live for families, Comprised of single-family homes with an average of 4 bedrooms and three bathrooms. 

Located near Downtown Historic Hillsborough, Strouds Creek residents will have access to highly-rated shops, restaurants, and activities. If you are searching for homes for sale in Strouds Creek, this is a thriving and vibrant community to call home in Hillsborough. 

Local Favorites: 

Burwell School Historic Site: Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, this former school is a hidden gem in Hillsborough that offers daily tours and events yearly. 

Panciuto: Perfect for a date night or a special occasion, this Italian restaurant is one of the best in the area for its locally sourced ingredients and freshly made dishes. 

El Restaurante Ixtapa: Serving Mexican fare in a cozy setting, this is a must-visit for tacos, guacamole, handmade tortillas, and fruit juices. 

7. Hillsborough Forest  

Hillsborough Forest is a top-rated neighborhood in Hillsborough that features beautiful mid-sized homes. Developed in 1987, this is a well-established community many people love to live in that has continued to grow and develop over the years. 

Homes for sale in Hillsborough Forest have an average of three bedrooms and one to three bathrooms. The homes in this neighborhood sit on one to three-acre lot sizes and average between 1,460 and 2,200 square feet. 

For those moving to Hillsborough Forest with school-aged children, the best schools in the area include Central Elementary School, Gravelly Hill Middle School, and Orange High School. 

Local Favorites: 

Spencers Tavern: Offering dine-in and takeout options, this tavern inside the Colonial Inn features brunch, lunch, and dinner favorites. 

The Colonial Inn: Book a night at this historic hotel with a highly-rated restaurant and beautifully decorated rooms. 

Kim's Bake Shop: Order and indulge in delicious pies, cakes, donuts, pastries, cookies, and savory snacks, all baked from scratch at this bakery in Downtown Hillsborough.

8. Collins Ridge 

Collins Ridge is a beautiful new construction community within walking distance of Downtown Hillsborough, with quick and easy access to Interstate 40 and Interstate 85. Homes in Collins Ridge feature three-bedroom single-family homes with two-car garages. 

One of the best reasons for moving to Collins Ridge is its resort-style amenities and smart home technology. Residents will have access to a clubhouse with a fitness center, a saltwater pool, a dog park, playgrounds, tennis courts, and pickleball courts. 

Local Favorites: 

Orange County Main Public Library: Offering free parking, visitors can check out a book or use one of the free computers. 

River Park: Walk along the river or enjoy a picnic with the family at this public park. 

Fairview Park: This well-maintained park features 

9. Braddock Park 

Braddock Park is a great place to live in Hillsborough, with single-family homes, condos, and townhomes. Developed in 2005, with most construction completed by 2013, Braddock Park is a beautiful community near many local attractions. 

Most homes for sale in Braddock Park have two to four bedrooms and up to three bathrooms. Ranging between 1,597 to 2,523 square feet, this neighborhood's average price per square foot is $238. 

Local Favorites: 

Hot Tin Roof: Enjoy live music, outdoor seating, cornhole, and big-screen TVs at this neighborhood sports bar. 

Crazy Shots Bar and Billiards: Hang with the locals at this bar, which has two full-sized pool tables, a dance floor, and karaoke on the weekend. 

Hillsborough Wine Company: Choose from a huge selection of wine at the oldest independent wine store in Hillsborough. 

10. Fox Run 

The Fox Run neighborhood has grown since its development in 1973. Though it may be an older community, the homes for sale in Fox Run are all reasonably priced and are mostly mid-sized single-family homes. 

With a resident average age of 53, most homeowners are families and established professionals. For those moving to Fox Run with school-aged children, the best schools in the area are Mangum Elementary School, George L Carrington Middle School, and Orange High School. 

Local Favorites: 

Triangle Area Polo Club and Arena: As the first polo club in North Carolina, learn about the sport and watch a match. 

Maple View Farms Country Store and Creamery: Enjoy specialty ice creams, waffle cones, and milkshakes. 

Orange County Sportsplex: This recreation center and sports complex has an ice rink, swimming pool, basketball courts, pickleball courts, a gym, and summer camps. 

FAQs 

Is Hillsborough, NC, a good place to live? 

As one of the best places to live in North Carolina, Hillsborough is a beautiful place to call home along the Eno River that boasts a rich history, vibrant culture, and a relaxing way of life. 

What is the cost of living in Hillsborough, NC? 

With a cost of living 2% higher than the national average, Hillsborough is an affordable place to live with sought-after real estate. 

Is Orange County a good place to live in NC? 

Centrally located in North Carolina, Orange County is the second-best county in the state, and it offers plenty of restaurants, bars, coffee shops, parks, and things to do. 

Best Neighborhoods in Hillsborough, NC - Final Thoughts 

Hillsborough is a great place to live, with many sought-after neighborhoods. Much like the neighborhoods in Durham, it is easy to find a great place to live in Hillsborough that meets your needs and budget. 

While moving to Durham and moving to Raleigh are great options, many people call Hillsborough home for its amenities and housing options. Contact us today to get in touch with a Real Estate Specialist.